Topic: Opinions

Sometimes I write reviews of things or offer unsolicited advice. Those article appear below:

• 
  My Favorite Books of 2025
  I read 45 books in 2025, diving deep into sci-fi classics and modern hits. From the Hyperion Cantos and the final Culture novel to the philosophical action of Murderbot, plus one literary masterpiece that is actually a video game, here are my absolute favorites of the year.
• 
  A Letter to my Alma Mater
  In a stunning failure of courage, UC Berkeley has turned over the personal information of students and staff to the federal government. This decision is a profound betrayal of the university's legacy, particularly the Free Speech Movement. This is my letter to the administration.
• 
  My Favorite Books of 2024
  In 2024, I read 46 books and joined a sci-fi book club. From sequels to classics, here are my favorite reads of the year.
• 
  Steelcase Gesture Review: A Disappointing Upgrade
  I spent eight months with the highly-rated Steelcase Gesture, only to be disappointed. In this review, I break down why this expensive ergonomic chair didn't work for me.
• 
  My Favorite Books of 2023
  After abandoning social media in 2023, I read books instead. Read on for my favorites.
• 
  A 1850-mile Review of the RadWagon 3
  The RadWagon electric cargo bike was a savior during lockdown family rides, but frustrating maintenance and support issues disappoint. Read on for my in-depth review.
• 
  AI, Artists, and Technology
  AI generated art took off with the open-source release of Stable Diffusion, leaving some artists worried. As an artist and machine learning engineer, here is my take.
• 
  Vim: I still love hjkl
  A lot of Vim users think you grow out of using hjkl for movement. After 17 years, I haven't. Here's why.
• 
  A Review of Nookdesk’s Standing Desk
  I bought a Nookdesk standing desk now that I'm working from home; I like it! Read on for a detailed review.
• 
  Should I Go To Insight Data Science?
  Insight promises an easy transition from academia to a career in data science or machine learning, but is it the right program for you? I have a few words of advice offered from experience.
• 
  Should I Get a PhD?
  In 2009, having little or no money in my purse, I thought I would go to graduate school in physics. But was it the right idea? And should you follow in my footsteps?
• 
  Tech Interviews: Respect Everyone’s Time
  Interviewing is notoriously agonizing for both the candidate and the company! But it could be much better! Here I propose one guiding principle to make it easier on everyone.